AUT Innovation FundTE PŪTEA AUAHATANGA O AUT
Empowering some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most innovative minds to transform their good ideas into real-world impact that benefit communities, support economic development, and create opportunities for AUT academics.
The AUT Innovation Fund, managed by AUT Ventures was launched in May 2025 with an investment of $5 million from AUT.
Growing research income is a key focus and the AUT Innovation Fund extends the way we support innovation and research commercialisation. The Innovation Fund is about building a culture of commercialisation, connecting researchers, postgraduate students and industry.
The AUT Innovation Fund has two key mechanisms:
- To directly invest in early-stage companies that have evolved from science and technological research; and
- To create new commercialisation and impact opportunities from AUT research and capabilities.
We’re proud to facilitate these initiatives in support of AUT researchers and students.
AUT VENTURES’ INVESTMENTS
A key function of the AUT Innovation Fund is investing in early-stage ventures via the AUT Ventures Investment Committee. Our remit is to provide financial backing for promising research projects that are:
- AUT-born: founded by AUT staff, students, researchers, or based on AUT research.
- High potential: a clear plan to grow, attract investment, and deliver commercial returns.
- Ethical and aligned: contributing positively to society, the environment, and AUT’s mission.
Grants
The Tīmatanga Initiate Grant
The Tīmatanga Initiate Grant supports AUT academics to engage with industry and develop proof of concept for research with commercial potential.
The Pito Mata Potential Grant
The Pito Mata Potential Grant fosters collaboration between AUT researchers and Master of Business Administration (MBA) students.
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